Dr. Charles R. Rogers is not only an esteemed behavioral scientist but also a master certified health education specialist (MCHES®). He is the visionary Founding Director of the Men’s Health Inequities Research Lab and an invited Associate Member of the world-renowned University of Michigan Mixed Methods Program. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Rogers has prioritized addressing health disparities among various underserved and socially vulnerable groups. He has been a tireless advocate for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders, older adults, African Americans, the unhoused, Somalis, adolescents, young adults, Hispanics, rural residents, Indigenous peoples, and sexual minorities. His dedication to these communities has left an indelible impact, making remarkable contributions to his field.
Dr. Rogers is committed to dismantling systems of oppression to ensure equitable health for all. His transdisciplinary training in applied mathematics & statistics, health education, public health administration & policy, community-based participatory research, and cancer-related health disparities provide a unique perspective on translating research findings into prevention methods for government agencies, policymakers, private health care organizations, and communities. Dr. Rogers’ exceptional capabilities and potential have been recognized locally and nationally through several competitive scholarships, grant awards, and fellowships, which have strengthened his knowledge and skills for a life-long career in health equity research. Since 2018, he has been awarded over $3.3 million from various institutions including the National Cancer Institute, the Research Foundation of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, Exact Sciences, and the V Foundation for Cancer Research for his community-engaged, mixed-methods research aiming to eradicate inequalities in both colorectal cancer (CRC) screening uptake among African-American men and early-onset CRC among individuals younger than the previously recommended CRC screening age of 50.
Dr. Rogers is highly respected in the field of cancer health disparities, with over 20 years of experience. He has shared his expertise across North America, Jamaica, East Africa, and Japan, and through various platforms, including newspapers, minority health fairs, national conferences, peer-reviewed publications, and community dialogue sessions. For over 14 years, Dr. Rogers has contributed to translational solutions addressing the root causes of inequities in men’s health, particularly focusing on CRC awareness and prevention among African-American men. Recognized as a thought leader in CRC, his research foci also include cancer health disparities, community-based implementation science, mixed methods, and survey methodology.
In March 2021, Dr. Rogers founded the Colorectal Cancer Equity Foundation, which aims to address obstacles to CRC equity among African-American men and other underserved populations by increasing awareness about CRC—a preventable, treatable, and beatable disease that no one should die from. In addition to his role as President of the Foundation, he is also the Founder and CEO of Rogers Solutions Group, a premium consulting firm committed to delivering community-focused, data-driven, and equity-centered solutions.
Dr. Rogers’ passion for making a positive impact is evident in his work and accomplishments. His research and servant leadership has earned recognition from esteemed organizations and media outlets like NPR, ESPN, the Japan Society for Mixed Methods Research, the Utah Jazz, and the World Health Organization. Dr. Rogers has also been awarded an Endowed Chair and numerous honors, including being named one of the 100 Most Influential Black Alumni at NC State University, a 40 Under 40 Leader in Minority Health, and a recipient of the Cancer Community Catalyst for Change Award. Despite these accolades, Dr. Rogers considers his roles as husband to Dr. Tiana and father to Charles II as his most cherished accomplishments.
